Credit Democratic apathy and a hustling campaigner-in-chief

The veterinarian beat '96 loser Tom Strickland in a bitter rematch. Their nasty tone drove loyal partisans to the polls but kept independents home. It hurt Strickland--Republicans outnumber Democrats in this state

The key to victory Allard wins the southern Denver suburbs and rural areas

MINNESOTA Norm Coleman

After Paul Wellstone's death, Coleman, 53, hit the perfect tone in ads--respectful but looking toward the future. With Mondale, 74, and gubernatorial candidate Roger Moe, 61, on their ticket, the Democrats looked like the past

The key to victory The partisan memorial service for Wellstone turned off independents